The Ninja Academy's training grounds.
The students of First Year Class A were rubbing their hands together, ready for the special training ahead.
Ino Yamanaka glanced at Sakura Haruno, who was hovering around Sasuke Uchiha.
Although she had been training with Beizawa, it had been too short a time for the results to show.
During yesterday's Combat Class, she had once again lost to Sakura Haruno in Water Walking Training.
But Ino Yamanaka saw hope.
She had been struck by Wooden Kunai fewer times than before.
After training with Beizawa for a few more days, she would be able to turn the tables on offense and defense.
Meanwhile, Sakura Haruno was too absorbed in Sasuke Uchiha to notice her changes.
Just then, Beizawa walked over.
Without needing his reminder, the students hurriedly lined up in neat formation.
"Today's Combat Class won't involve training."
Facing their gazes, Beizawa said with a smile, "Because First Year Class A will be holding its first truly meaningful practical battle."
"Practical battle?"
Kiba Inuzuka immediately raised his hand and asked, "Will it be one-on-one fights?"
"That's right."
After Beizawa confirmed it, everyone erupted into cheers.
In the ninja world, where strength reigned supreme, theory was far less important than power.
They had been in school for nearly two months, and today they finally had a chance to show what they could do. Naturally, they were thrilled.
"What a drag."
Shikamaru Nara looked utterly unmotivated.
"No snack rewards?"
Choji Akimichi sounded deeply disappointed.
"I wonder if I can get matched against Sakura."
With her arms folded, Ino Yamanaka pondered whether she could defeat Sakura Haruno in a spar.
She came from the Yamanaka Clan and had a better ninja foundation than Sakura, so her chances of winning were high.
"Ah!"
Kiba Inuzuka said regretfully, "I still